Using 4-H Animal Science Programming to Improve One Health

Lacie Ashby, University of Maryland Extension, Allegany CountyFollow
April Barczewski, University of Maryland Extension, Cecil CountyFollow
Ashley Travis, University of Maryland ExtensionFollow
Chris Anderson, University of Maryland ExtensionFollow
Sheryl Bennett, University of Maryland ExtensionFollow

Abstract

Zoonoses, or diseases that can be transferred between humans and animals, such as variant swine influenza, avian influenza A viruses, and coronaviruses, comprise a large percentage of all newly identified and existing infectious diseases (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2017). As a result, there is an ever-growing need for a One Health approach towards preventing and controlling zoonotic diseases. To better manage these public health risks at the human-animal-environment interface, Maryland 4-H and Maryland Department of Health initiated a statewide, multi-agency collaborative partnership. Through steps taken to collectively develop and implement long-term strategies to prevent future variant influenza outbreaks in Maryland, a valuable One Health partnership was developed. As a result, the Healthy Animals | Healthy YOUth program, novel influenza, and other zoonotic disease subject matter content was delivered using multiple approaches, including 1) the addition of new content to an already existing online 4-H Animal Husbandry and Quality Assurance program, 2) distribution of 120 resource kits across two states containing a collection of 24 hands-on lessons, resource documents, and supplemental teaching materials, 3) in-person and virtual train-the-trainer sessions, 4) youth workshops, 5) educational and hands-on activity videos, and 6) standardized fair signage for use at animal exhibits.

Recommended Citation

Ashby, L., Barczewski, A., Travis, A., Anderson, C., & Bennett, S. (2021). Using 4-H Animal Science Programming to Improve One Health. Journal of Human Sciences and Extension, 9(3), 16. DOI: https://doi.org/10.54718/MXKC6721